As the sweltering summer heat starts to fade and the cooler temperatures of fall starts to settle in, residents of South Beloit and Belvidere start preparing their homes and yards for the winter. For many, that leads to the question of whether they need to cover their outdoor AC for the winter.
While it may seem like a smart idea, in reality there are several reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. On top of not being something you need to do, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can even cause problems.
Here, the professionals at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc share five reasons why covering your air conditioner doesn’t need to be on your fall to-do list and what you should do instead.
1. Your AC Unit Isn’t Damaged by Snow
Exterior AC units are built to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the winter season. These units are built with solid materials and components that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are constructed to resist corrosion, and the housing is designed to protect the internal components from moisture and debris.
2. Covering Your Air Conditioner Can Cause Mold
One of the reasons you should avoid covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment in the wintertime is because doing so can trap moisture—which is not at all what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because sealing moisture inside the unit creates the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to thrive.
Mold and mildew not only have a bad smell, but they can also present health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, the excess moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
Instead of covering the unit, instead make sure the unit has proper drainage and keep the area around the unit cleared of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.
3. Your Covered Air Conditioning Unit Can Attract Animals
You and your family aren’t the only ones who get ready for winter. Animals that live around your home are also looking for a warm, cozy place to crash for the wintry months. For many critters, a covered air conditioner is an awesome winter refuge.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats frequently make homes inside covered air conditioners. Animals dwelling in a covered air conditioning unit can cause many problems. Rats can chew through wires, insulation and other connections, causing damage that may require expensive repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to construct a warm and comfortable nest can impair airflow and ventilation, reducing the efficiency of the unit and potentially causing it to overheat. Additionally, animal droppings can result in unsanitary conditions and potent odors.
Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps deter animals, because an uncovered AC gives them less shelter from chilly temperatures than a covered unit. That’s better for your AC—and leaves you with less mess to pick up and things to repair once the snow melts.
4. A Winter Cover for AC Units Restricts Airflow
Another reason it’s better that you don’t cover your AC unit in the winter is because a cover blocks airflow through the unit. Suitable airflow is essential for the AC system because it helps with heat exchange and permits the unit to cool efficiently. When airflow is reduced, the system has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, leading to greater energy consumption and strain on the components.
In addition, if you turn on your air conditioner without knowing that the exterior unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the lack of correct airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, causing its failure or damage. That’s why it is vital to ensure the outdoor unit has no obstructions and is not covered to maintain the best possible airflow.
5. AC Maintenance Works Better Than Covering Your Air Conditioner
The bottom line is, it’s lots more effective to do a little maintenance for your air conditioner than to cover your outdoor AC unit.
There are several key maintenance projects you should prioritize to ensure maximum function and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s wise to examine your outdoor AC unit regularly and pull out any debris such as leaves, twigs and dirt to promote proper airflow. Second, examine and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure there isn’t any dirt and dust buildup that would hinder effective heat exchange or airflow.
Regular air conditioning maintenance not only improves efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit’s life span, decreases energy consumption and avoids costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, committing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive plan of action that can significantly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.
